The role of bovine tuberculosis as zoonotic disease in Ethiopia

Abstract

Abstract
Bovine tuberculosis (BTB) is endemic in Ethiopia although the epidemiology and zoonotic importance of the disease is not well known. In order to assess the magnitude of BTB in animals and its zppnotic impact in humans a comprehensive surveillance study has to be conducted in all the geographical zones of the country. Tackling a disease like BTB which affects both liverstock and humans requires joint activities between the ministries of Agriculture and rural Health. The close working relationship developed between the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MoARD) and the Ministry of Health (MoH), such as the National Coordination Committee created for the avian human influenza and Rift Valley fever threat can be used for BTB as well. Through this development an effective response can be mounted against BTB and other serious liverstock diseases that have a stiginificant public helth component. A joint effort of the two ministries as well as national and international research institutes is required more than ever to handle old and newly emerging zoonotic dieases. [Ethiop.J.Health Dev. 2008;22(Special Issue):126-127]